Effectiveness of parliamentary representatives in holding government to account Flashcards
What do parliamentary representatives (MSPs) do?
Work for their party allegiance, the parliament and their constituency or region.
How many MSPs are there?
129
What responsibilities, duties and powers do MSPs have?
Taking part in debates, raising private members bills, dealing with lobbying groups and addressing the issues of the people they represent.
What is voting in parliament?
Voting in parliament is when MSPs vote for or against new laws or amendments.
How does each MSP vote?
Each MSP has an electronic keypad on their table in the debating chamber and they simply press a button to vote.
What legislation has the Scottish government voted on?
Gender reform, free period products and the physical discipline of children.
How does voting hold the government to account?
It forces the government to rethink and evaluative their policies, especially in times of a minority or coalition government.
How does voting fail to hold the government to account?
Bills can be passed without any opposition support, especially when there is a majority in parliament.
When did the SNP hold majority government?
2011-2016
What act did the SNP pass in 2012?
The Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Act
How is voting affected by the type of government?
A majority government can pass laws quite easily but a minority or coalition government might otherwise struggle without opposition support.
